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Original poster

How is 'routine' male circumcision perceived by feminism/feminists?

79 replies

AgentZigzag · 07/08/2011 17:16

I'm just on another thread in AIBU and didn't want to hijack it and so thought I'd take the plunge in the best section to answer the question in the title.

The discussion between posters about why male and female circumcision are viewed differently by people/society made me wonder what kinds of pressures are on the mother of a baby to perform this surgical procedure on their child.

Looking specifically at male circumcision (because that's what the other thread is about, if it's possible to separate the two) is this a pressure entirely generated by men (in religious institutions/families etc) and which is colluded with by the father, who may voice his expectations for the mother to conform in an attempt to influence the possibility of the procedure going ahead with her permission?

Or does this as an explanation of why women have their sons circumcised falsely portray women as powerless in determining what happens to their children, when in fact they're quite able to make decisions for themselves and their families without being coerced by anyone.

I'm tempted to say something like 'I'm probably talking rubbish' or 'please go easy on me' but I won't because that would unmask the lack of confidence I feel I have in discussing feminism and may lead to me being shot down in flames for pointing out my weakness.

OP posts:
purits · 07/08/2011 18:11

Haven't read the other thread, but I think that all 'amendments' are bizarre. A child is born - perfect, as god intended - and religious people decide to start hacking bits off it.Confused

Irrespective of the gender of the child, how can you possibly justify doing that? It is barbaric.

Riveninside · 07/08/2011 18:08

Im against routine male circumcision. Its mutilating a babys genitals. If they wish to become religious when older and have it done then fair enough. But it shouldnt be imposed on any gender by parents.

BertieBotts · 07/08/2011 17:59

I'm against routine male circumcision, but I don't know that it is a feminist issue.

SardineQueen · 07/08/2011 17:57

I was looking at that thread a bit. I didn't comment as I feel a bit "meh" about circumcision (male). I think this is because I have always mixed a lot with Jewish people and it was seen as something totally normal, and that has rubbed off on me a bit.

I think the reason female and male circumcision is viewed differently is because female circumcision is much more invasive and dangerous?

And yes I think there is a point there about a difference in reaction between something that men are perceived to be doing to each other and something that men are perceived to be doing to women (although it is often women who carry out FGM there is an idea that they wouldn't do it if it wasn't for men's rules about it through religion or culture).

I probably should think about it more and read more arguments about male circumcision TBH. Generally though I am an athiest and know that if I did think about it the answer would be that it is unnecessary and so why do it.